Eating disorders are the third most common chronic illness. They are particularly prevalent in adolescent females and the numbers have risen dramatically over the past thirty years. These disorders in eating behavior must be corrected as early as possible since they can lead to the development of illnesses affecting normal growth and development, both physically and psychologically.
There are two categories of eating disorders. These are anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. Anorexia nervosa is a disorder in which the intake of food is severely limited. In bulimia nervosa, the adolescent binges on food and then tries to minimize the effects of overeating. She may do so by forcibly vomiting, fasting, or over exercising.
Adolescent eating disorders must be handled differently from adult eating disorders. This is due in part to the fact that adolescents face problems including growth retardation, suppressed height, abnormal weight, pubertal delay, menstrual period absence, and menses unpredictability. Other problems may include critical tissue component loss such as loss of body fat, muscle mass and bone mineral. Nutritional imbalance is also reflected in abnormalities in the levels of vitamins, minerals and other trace elements.
It is important to diagnose adolescent eating disorders as early as possible. Eating disorders can also lead to impaired acquisition of peak bone mass in adolescents. As they age, this problem leads to osteoporosis. Internal organs are also affected by eating disorders. All of these problems can be prevented by early intervention in order to limit, prevent and ameliorate medical complications, which can become life threatening.
Adolescents practicing unhealthy weight control measures and who are obsessed about their figure, weight and food or exercise should be treated clinically. Not only should the symptoms be assessed, but their duration, intensity and frequency should also be monitored. Although most of the physical complications caused by eating disorders are solved with the help of nutritional rehabilitation, some of the conditions become irreversible with dangerous long term consequences. It is best if the eating disorders are recognized in the early stages. The medical monitoring should continue until the adolescent returns to appropriate psychological and medical health.
Eating disorders can also result in psychological abnormalities in addition to the physical health problems. Adolescents with eating disorders often develop social isolation, low self esteem, affective disorders, low self concept, substance abuse, anxiety, and depression. Oftentimes adolescents may resort to unhealthy eating habits as a way of coping with depression and lack of knowledge about effective techniques to lose weight. So these adolescents also need to be assessed for psychiatric illness. Early intervention and treatment will have an improved outcome for the health of your adolescent.
Learn How To Stop Binge Eating And Take Control Of Your Life By Clicking Here!
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
Friday, January 30, 2009
Obesity and Diabetes in Adolescents
Over thirteen thousand adolescents are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes
every year in America. Diabetes is a rapidly growing and serious health problem among young people today. There has also been an increase in the number of teenagers with type 2 diabetes as well. This is disturbing due to the fact that this has normally been a more common disorder among adults over forty who are overweight.
Type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes are the two types of diabetes, . Type 1 is also known as juvenile diabetes and is usually diagnosed in childhood. It is due to the pancreas` inability to produce enough insulin. In type 2 diabetes there is not enough insulin produced by the pancreas. The body may not make proper use of the insulin that is available.
Several studies have linked an increasing number of people being diagnosed with diabetes to obesity. When a person is obese or very overweight they are overtaxing their pancreas and this can lead to type 2 diabetes. Being obese is a risk factor for diabetes but that does not necessarily mean that you will develop the disease if you are obese. By losing weight and leading a healthier lifestyle you can reduce or eliminate the obesity risk factor.
Do you want to learn more about the link between obesity and diabetes in adolescents? Click here for our FREE report!
every year in America. Diabetes is a rapidly growing and serious health problem among young people today. There has also been an increase in the number of teenagers with type 2 diabetes as well. This is disturbing due to the fact that this has normally been a more common disorder among adults over forty who are overweight.
Type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes are the two types of diabetes, . Type 1 is also known as juvenile diabetes and is usually diagnosed in childhood. It is due to the pancreas` inability to produce enough insulin. In type 2 diabetes there is not enough insulin produced by the pancreas. The body may not make proper use of the insulin that is available.
Several studies have linked an increasing number of people being diagnosed with diabetes to obesity. When a person is obese or very overweight they are overtaxing their pancreas and this can lead to type 2 diabetes. Being obese is a risk factor for diabetes but that does not necessarily mean that you will develop the disease if you are obese. By losing weight and leading a healthier lifestyle you can reduce or eliminate the obesity risk factor.
Do you want to learn more about the link between obesity and diabetes in adolescents? Click here for our FREE report!
Friday, January 09, 2009
Causes of Obesity in Adolescents
Obesity, which has become a leading cause of morbidity in America, is a chronic disease posing several serious health risks to the individual. Although obesity is easily recognizable it is frequently very difficult to deal with. More than three hundred thousand deaths a year can be directly attributable to obesity and the problem is on the rise.
Definition of Obesity
Overweight and obesity are often used interchangeably. Being overweight, though, is really only about gaining a few extra pounds. When a person is considered obese, this means that the individual's total body weight is, at a minimum, ten percent more than the recommended weight for their body structure and height.
Not only is the problem an expensive public health concern, with one estimate stating that a hundred billion dollars are spent every year on the obesity problem, it has important implications for the health of our children. Children between the ages of ten and thirteen who are obese have an eighty percent chance of growing into obese adults. The problem usually starts from the age of five and continues through adolescence.
Causes of Obesity
The causes of obesity in adolescence are numerous and include a host of biological, genetic, cultural and behavioral factors. Overeating, family history, bad eating habits, little or no exercise, medical illness, low self esteem, medications, depression, emotional problems, stressful life, and family problems have all been implicated. One percent of obesity is caused by medical disorders.
Obesity in America
Obesity is responsible for causing a number of major health problems. These problems include diabetes, sleeping disorders, high blood pressure, breathing problems, emotional problems and an increase in heart disease risk. Teenagers are more prone to developing emotional problems. Because of the weight, they often develop problems of low self esteem. They become depressed and anxious and may develop some decidedly unhealthy coping mechanisms for dealing with being obese.
If your teen has a problem with obesity and wishes to tackle the problem, your pediatrician should be approached. He will thoroughly evaluate the cause. If the obesity cannot be attributed to a physical disorder, then the doctor can assist the adolescent with an appropriate weight management program designed to gradually change the eating habits of the teenager. Collaboration with other health care team members in order to develop a comprehensive plan for treatment is invaluable. The plan should include reasonable goals, behavior modification, family participation, and the management of physical activity.
Parents can play a major role in boosting the self esteem of their obese adolescent by focusing on their strengths and by encouraging their efforts, instead of targeting the weight problem. The whole family should become involved by eating healthy meals together. Deciding to lose weight and adopt better eating habits is not a short term event. It is a new way of living. Exercising and eating right is a lifestyle choice and the obese adolescent should be supported in their efforts by their loved ones. It is too easy to shift back to the old habits and they need you now more than ever to help them reach their goals by being a powerful example.
Definition of Obesity
Overweight and obesity are often used interchangeably. Being overweight, though, is really only about gaining a few extra pounds. When a person is considered obese, this means that the individual's total body weight is, at a minimum, ten percent more than the recommended weight for their body structure and height.
Not only is the problem an expensive public health concern, with one estimate stating that a hundred billion dollars are spent every year on the obesity problem, it has important implications for the health of our children. Children between the ages of ten and thirteen who are obese have an eighty percent chance of growing into obese adults. The problem usually starts from the age of five and continues through adolescence.
Causes of Obesity
The causes of obesity in adolescence are numerous and include a host of biological, genetic, cultural and behavioral factors. Overeating, family history, bad eating habits, little or no exercise, medical illness, low self esteem, medications, depression, emotional problems, stressful life, and family problems have all been implicated. One percent of obesity is caused by medical disorders.
Obesity in America
Obesity is responsible for causing a number of major health problems. These problems include diabetes, sleeping disorders, high blood pressure, breathing problems, emotional problems and an increase in heart disease risk. Teenagers are more prone to developing emotional problems. Because of the weight, they often develop problems of low self esteem. They become depressed and anxious and may develop some decidedly unhealthy coping mechanisms for dealing with being obese.
If your teen has a problem with obesity and wishes to tackle the problem, your pediatrician should be approached. He will thoroughly evaluate the cause. If the obesity cannot be attributed to a physical disorder, then the doctor can assist the adolescent with an appropriate weight management program designed to gradually change the eating habits of the teenager. Collaboration with other health care team members in order to develop a comprehensive plan for treatment is invaluable. The plan should include reasonable goals, behavior modification, family participation, and the management of physical activity.
Parents can play a major role in boosting the self esteem of their obese adolescent by focusing on their strengths and by encouraging their efforts, instead of targeting the weight problem. The whole family should become involved by eating healthy meals together. Deciding to lose weight and adopt better eating habits is not a short term event. It is a new way of living. Exercising and eating right is a lifestyle choice and the obese adolescent should be supported in their efforts by their loved ones. It is too easy to shift back to the old habits and they need you now more than ever to help them reach their goals by being a powerful example.
Monday, January 05, 2009
Stop Childhood Obesity in its Tracks!
Childhood obesity is a chronic condition which has risen rapidly over the past several years and has finally gained national recognition as a serious health problem. Large numbers of children between the ages of two and five years old are well on there way to becoming the next generation of obese teenagers, and eventually obese adults. Obesity is one of the leading causes of morbidity, disability, discrimination, and employment problems. It has also become one of the biggest public health concerns since tobacco use. Although poor eating habits and lack of exercise are not the only cause of childhood obesity, they do play a major role in the condition.
In their annual National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey,the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have concluded that as many as one third of U.S. children are overweight or at high risk for childhood obesity. As these children age, they are looking at an increased risk of several major health problems such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes, problems usually associated with adulthood.
Fighting this disturbing condition must begin at home with the caregivers.The child's overall diet must improve. It is not enough to put the child on a diet; it must become a complete lifestyle change. Help your child to make good food choices. Become a powerful example to your child by practicing what you preach. Exercise is another key to resolving the problem. Get the child involved in finding activities that the whole family can enjoy. Protecting your child's health today and in the future depends greatly on the education of parents and caregivers. We rely on you to implement healthy daily living strategies and your child's life may depend on it.
Don't waste your time and money on fad diets that never work...Instead, grab the only source of quality information on teen weight loss done the right way!
In their annual National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey,the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have concluded that as many as one third of U.S. children are overweight or at high risk for childhood obesity. As these children age, they are looking at an increased risk of several major health problems such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes, problems usually associated with adulthood.
Fighting this disturbing condition must begin at home with the caregivers.The child's overall diet must improve. It is not enough to put the child on a diet; it must become a complete lifestyle change. Help your child to make good food choices. Become a powerful example to your child by practicing what you preach. Exercise is another key to resolving the problem. Get the child involved in finding activities that the whole family can enjoy. Protecting your child's health today and in the future depends greatly on the education of parents and caregivers. We rely on you to implement healthy daily living strategies and your child's life may depend on it.
Don't waste your time and money on fad diets that never work...Instead, grab the only source of quality information on teen weight loss done the right way!
Saturday, January 03, 2009
Checkout My Squidoo Lens!
Hey Everybody,
I want to invite you all to check out my new Squidoo Lens here. I intend to bring you all the latest resources and information about improving and maintaining your health and fitness levels. I am dedicated to helping everyone live life to its fullest. And I want to hear from you, too, so don't be shy. Tell us what you know, what works for you, and how you stay on top of your game.
I want to invite you all to check out my new Squidoo Lens here. I intend to bring you all the latest resources and information about improving and maintaining your health and fitness levels. I am dedicated to helping everyone live life to its fullest. And I want to hear from you, too, so don't be shy. Tell us what you know, what works for you, and how you stay on top of your game.
Friday, May 16, 2008
Your Five-Minute Daily Program to Stress Management.
Have you ever felt stressed out even when you're well relaxed and bored? I know I have. Stress is unavoidable in life, more so than ever today. We need to find ways to decrease and prevent stressful incidents and decrease negative reactions to stress in our lives.
Here are some ways that can be used to manage stress in our daily life. Some of them are quick fixes; others you can begin to incorporate into your daily routine to keep stress at bay for the long haul.
1) Manage Your Time Effectively.
Time management skills allow you more time with your family and friends as well as increasing your performance and productivity. This will help to reduce your stress.
Here are some ways to improve your time management:
-Start by keeping a record of how you spend your time, including work, family, and leisure time.
-Plan your day out and stick to your plan.
-You can save time by focusing and concentrating, delegating and scheduling time for yourself.
-Prioritize your time by ranking tasks according to importance and urgency and then redirect your time to those activities that are important and urgent to you.
-Manage your commitments by not over- or under- committing. Don't commit to what is not important to you. Learn how to say no.
-Deal with procrastination by using a day planner, breaking large projects into smaller ones, and setting short-term deadlines.
2) Build Healthy Coping Strategies.
It is important that you identify your coping strategies. One way to do this is by recording the stressful events, your reaction, and how you cope in a stress journal. With this information, you can work to change unhealthy coping strategies into healthy ones -- those that help you focus on the positive and what you can change or control in your life.
3) Lifestyle
Some behaviors and lifestyle choices can also negatively affect your stress level. They may not cause stress directly, but they can interfere with the ways your body seeks relief from stress.
Try the following:
-Learn how to balance personal, work, and family needs and obligations in your life.
-Develop a sense of purpose in your life.
-Make sure you get enough sleep, since your body recovers from the stresses of the day while sleeping.
-Eat a balanced diet for a nutritional defense against stress.
-Get plenty of exercise throughout the week.
-Limit your consumption of alcohol.
-Don't smoke. And if you do, investigate ways to attempt to quit soon.
4) Social Support.
Social support is a major factor in how we experience stress. Social support is the positive support you receive from your family, friends, and the community. It is the knowledge that you are cared for, loved, esteemed, and valued. A great deal of research indicates a strong relationship between social support and better mental and physical health.
5) Change Your Thinking.
Sometimes events trigger negative thoughts, which can lead to feelings of fear, insecurity, anxiety, depression, rage, guilt, and a sense of worthlessness or powerlessness. These emotions trigger the body's stress, just as an actual threat does. Changing your thinking and dealing with your negative thoughts in new and different ways can help reduce stress.
-Thought stopping helps you stop a negative thought to help eliminate stress.
-Disproving irrational thoughts helps you to avoid exaggerating the negative thoughts, anticipating the worst, and interpreting an event incorrectly.
-Problem-solving helps you identify all aspects of the stressful event and find ways to deal with it.
-Changing your communication style helps you communicate in a way that makes your views known without making others feel put down, hostile, or intimidated, thus reducing the stress that comes from poor communication.
Everyone experiences stress to some degree. Whether you're a stay at home mom, or the CEO of a huge company, stress will undoubtedly be an unwanted visitor from time to time. When you learn effective ways of coping with and dealing with stress, it is no longer the dreaded enemy.
Here are some ways that can be used to manage stress in our daily life. Some of them are quick fixes; others you can begin to incorporate into your daily routine to keep stress at bay for the long haul.
1) Manage Your Time Effectively.
Time management skills allow you more time with your family and friends as well as increasing your performance and productivity. This will help to reduce your stress.
Here are some ways to improve your time management:
-Start by keeping a record of how you spend your time, including work, family, and leisure time.
-Plan your day out and stick to your plan.
-You can save time by focusing and concentrating, delegating and scheduling time for yourself.
-Prioritize your time by ranking tasks according to importance and urgency and then redirect your time to those activities that are important and urgent to you.
-Manage your commitments by not over- or under- committing. Don't commit to what is not important to you. Learn how to say no.
-Deal with procrastination by using a day planner, breaking large projects into smaller ones, and setting short-term deadlines.
2) Build Healthy Coping Strategies.
It is important that you identify your coping strategies. One way to do this is by recording the stressful events, your reaction, and how you cope in a stress journal. With this information, you can work to change unhealthy coping strategies into healthy ones -- those that help you focus on the positive and what you can change or control in your life.
3) Lifestyle
Some behaviors and lifestyle choices can also negatively affect your stress level. They may not cause stress directly, but they can interfere with the ways your body seeks relief from stress.
Try the following:
-Learn how to balance personal, work, and family needs and obligations in your life.
-Develop a sense of purpose in your life.
-Make sure you get enough sleep, since your body recovers from the stresses of the day while sleeping.
-Eat a balanced diet for a nutritional defense against stress.
-Get plenty of exercise throughout the week.
-Limit your consumption of alcohol.
-Don't smoke. And if you do, investigate ways to attempt to quit soon.
4) Social Support.
Social support is a major factor in how we experience stress. Social support is the positive support you receive from your family, friends, and the community. It is the knowledge that you are cared for, loved, esteemed, and valued. A great deal of research indicates a strong relationship between social support and better mental and physical health.
5) Change Your Thinking.
Sometimes events trigger negative thoughts, which can lead to feelings of fear, insecurity, anxiety, depression, rage, guilt, and a sense of worthlessness or powerlessness. These emotions trigger the body's stress, just as an actual threat does. Changing your thinking and dealing with your negative thoughts in new and different ways can help reduce stress.
-Thought stopping helps you stop a negative thought to help eliminate stress.
-Disproving irrational thoughts helps you to avoid exaggerating the negative thoughts, anticipating the worst, and interpreting an event incorrectly.
-Problem-solving helps you identify all aspects of the stressful event and find ways to deal with it.
-Changing your communication style helps you communicate in a way that makes your views known without making others feel put down, hostile, or intimidated, thus reducing the stress that comes from poor communication.
Everyone experiences stress to some degree. Whether you're a stay at home mom, or the CEO of a huge company, stress will undoubtedly be an unwanted visitor from time to time. When you learn effective ways of coping with and dealing with stress, it is no longer the dreaded enemy.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Feel Like A Kid Again!
Dear friends,
Yesterday was a weird day for me... For the first
time in a long time I felt like a kid again... standing in the middle of toys r us... when my parents told me I can pick whatever toy I wanted.
Here's the reason why I felt this way?
Yesterday there was an all-day event called FitcomXpo and if you don't know about it
you can find out more by going here:
http://www.fitcomxpo.com/index.cfm?affID=prt20007
Anyways, the event featured the best fitness info I've heard in a long time from all walks of life in the fitness industry.
I'm talking Alwyn Cosgrove, Pat Rigsby, Todd Durkin (Trainer of Former NFL MVP), Pete Siegel who works with pro athletes on their mindset, and that was just 4 of the 39 presentations from yesterday...
The crazy thing is...
I still have 2 more days of this to go!
Don't make the mistake of being left
outside in the cold on a stormy winter day...
Come join the fun in the virtual sun with FitcomXpo...
http://www.fitcomxpo.com/index.cfm?affID=prt20007
Yesterday was a weird day for me... For the first
time in a long time I felt like a kid again... standing in the middle of toys r us... when my parents told me I can pick whatever toy I wanted.
Here's the reason why I felt this way?
Yesterday there was an all-day event called FitcomXpo and if you don't know about it
you can find out more by going here:
http://www.fitcomxpo.com/index
Anyways, the event featured the best fitness info I've heard in a long time from all walks of life in the fitness industry.
I'm talking Alwyn Cosgrove, Pat Rigsby, Todd Durkin (Trainer of Former NFL MVP), Pete Siegel who works with pro athletes on their mindset, and that was just 4 of the 39 presentations from yesterday...
The crazy thing is...
I still have 2 more days of this to go!
Don't make the mistake of being left
outside in the cold on a stormy winter day...
Come join the fun in the virtual sun with FitcomXpo...
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